This week I am traveling to Wichita, Kansas. I’ll be playing in the orchestra and teaching a masterclass and some lessons at Wichita State University.
It’s slightly hilarious to me that a week of playing in an orchestra, teaching lessons, and making reeds sounds like a VACATION compared to my normal life of playing in an orchestra, teaching lessons, and making reeds – but something about getting on a plane makes it seem like a real getaway. Really, just not being in my own house where there is always something to do or someone who needs a snack or a bath is going to be a treat.
I always have mixed feelings about leaving Zoe – on the one hand I look forward to hours of uninterrupted practice time, reflection time, writing time. I can work on some website updates I’ve been planning and get a substantial head start on the recital music that’s been kind of on hold. On the other hand, of course, she is SO GREAT. I’d love to spend every minute of the day with her, and I miss her even when she’s at school and I am working like a maniac to get everything done before she comes back. A daily Face Time call doesn’t compare to an actual life together.
Meanwhile, though, I’m excited to visit a town I’ve never been to. Can’t wait to play in the orchestra – Haydn 90 and Carmina Burana – and I’m looking forward to visiting with an old friend and meeting some great students and talking oboe ALL WEEK LONG.
Who’s near Kansas? For concert info click HERE.
I know what you mean about leaving Zoe at home. It's always nice when all three of my kids are in school, it's very convenient that the band I play in rehearses during those times (so, unlike you, I don't get anything done at home, lol) but I am always happy to go pick my daughter up from school. Do you have family in town to watch her when you are gone? We don't have anyone here and it's a problem to try finding someone to watch the kids if I have a late afternoon concert. My husband works long hours, so I usually have to skip those. You can imagine how happy it makes the band director. Next year I will have to audition to play in another band because my daughter's school days will be different. Have you ever brought Zoe to your rehearsals? My band director told me if I am willing to stay with them next year he will not mind me bringing Rachael to rehearsals, but they are 2 hrs. long and she will be 4. I don't think she will find it amusing.
It happens that my husband doesn't have a gig this week, so babysitting turned out to be a non-issue. The great thing about both being musicians is that our schedules are pretty flexible and often mesh beautifully. I get home from teaching and he leaves for a concert, or vice versa. When we have to hire sitters in order to both work we do so. I can't imagine bringing Zoe to a rehearsal until she can read – she's a very good girl but 2 and a half hours is way too long for a three-year-old to not get into trouble. Thanks for reading!